How to make your Apple Watch last longer without charging

Apple Watch is like a mini-computer on your wrist, but its usefulness fades if the battery dies midday. Most battery issues are caused by settings and habits, not a malfunction.

Here’s how to make your Apple Watch last longer, according to NV.

Optimize GPS and location

Go to Settings — Privacy — Location Services and allow access only to essential apps (e.g., Workout). Constant GPS use drains the battery quickly.

Manage the display

For models with Always-On Display, turn this feature off and lower brightness to about 50–70% to save power.

Reduce unnecessary notifications

Every notification wakes the watch, turns on the screen, and vibrates. Keep only critical alerts active.

Check battery health

Go to Settings — Battery. If Maximum Capacity is below 80%, the battery is worn and may need replacement, especially after 2–3 years of use.

Update watchOS

New firmware versions often include bug fixes and improvements in energy efficiency.

Use standard watch faces

Heavy third-party faces with animations and widgets can drain the battery continuously. Minimalist faces work best.

Charge with original accessories

Certified chargers and clean contacts reduce the risk of overheating and uneven charging.

Keep Bluetooth on with iPhone

Apple Watch uses less energy via Bluetooth LE than when connected over Wi-Fi.

Limit "power-hungry" apps

In the Watch app on iPhone, turn off Automatic Downloads (App Store) and Background App Refresh (General). Social media and messaging apps are particularly demanding.

Enable low power mode during workouts

Go to Watch — Workout and turn on Power Saving Mode to temporarily disable heart rate monitoring and conserve battery if you don’t need that metric.

Rapid Apple Watch battery drain is usually caused by settings and usage habits, not hardware issues. Following these simple tips can significantly extend battery life and prevent your watch from dying at the worst possible moment.

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